Promoting Equitable Development

Abstract

Advocates for opportunity and inclusion face more challenges and possibilities than they have within recent memory. Exacerbated by an accelerating decline of the nation’s cities, inequality seems to be further entrenched. However, rapidly changing economic and social conditions provide opportunities to address problems in innovative ways. At a time when government has reduced its active commitment to advancing social justice, new stakeholders are emerging as partners to tackle urban problems. In general, there is less interest in talking about racism but a growing commitment to diversity and a budding interest in alleviating poverty. These times demand new ways of thinking about inequity as well as new mechanisms for addressing it. Instead of settling for piecemeal gains, a comprehensive, long-term approach is needed. The local level is witnessing a groundswell of activity that reflects this type of thinking, providing the necessary leadership in the coming period.